Landlocked in the center of Europe, Austria is known for its picturesque landscapes. There are several scenic lakes in Austria which are popular among tourists as well as the locals. Dominating the beautiful terrain of Austria, these lakes are a must-visit for all nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and couples.
Our List Of The Best Lakes In Austria
If you are planning to visit Austria soon, you must visit some of Austria’s best lakes set in the lap of nature.
1. Lake Achensee
Suggested Read: 7 Incredible Tourists Places For A Day-Long Trip In Austria
One of the largest Austrian lakes, it is also known as the nickname Fjord of the Alps. The place offers stunning views of lakes and mountains in Austria while the crystal clear turquoise waters make for an unforgettable visit. The lake is buzzing with activities like swimming, windsurfing, rafting, kite surfing, and paddle surfing during the summer months.
Perfect for: Honeymooners
Accessibility: Easy
2. Hallstatter See
Image Source
Hallstatter is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria. It is a small village with traditional Austrian architecture and built near the Dachstein mountains on Hallstätter See, creating a picturesque oasis.
Perfect for: Hiking and Scuba Diving
Accessibility: Easy
3. Mondsee
Suggested Read: World’s First Beer Pool In Austria – Because There’s Nothing Like Too Much Beer
Mondsee, meaning Moon Lake in English, is one of the most famous lakes in Austria near Salzburg. This lake is the epitome of scenic beauty with a delightful lakeside village. It makes up for perfect Austrian lake holidays which lets its visitors escape the hustle and bustle of their otherwise busy lives. This is also a popular destination for weddings.
Perfect for: Hiking and relaxing
Accessibility: Easy
4. Traunsee
Image Source
Traunsee is the deepest lake in Austria near Salzburg. Traunsee, meaning ‘Dream Lake’, is surrounded by quaint villages to visit such as Altmünster and Traunkirchen and the Schloss Ort castle. This lake is very popular for its outdoor activities as well Lungy, an underwater creature that is believed to live here.
Perfect for: Adventure lovers
Accessibility: Easy
5. Plansee
Suggested Read: In Pictures: A Breathtaking Kaleidoscope Of Austria’s Most Beautiful Spots
Located in the Tyrol region of Austria, Lake Plansee is the second largest water body found in this region. It is further connected to another lake via a canal, called the Heiterwang. The lake is an unparalleled spot for outdoor enthusiasts and an absolute must visit for tourists.
Perfect for: Boating, jogging, cycling, inline skating, scuba diving, fishing, camping
Accessibility: Easy
6. Gruner See
Image Source
The literal meaning of Gruner See is Green Lake owing to the vibrant emerald green colour of the water. Surprisingly, it is comprised of melted snow from the Karst Mountains, making the water extremely cold even during summers. However, Gruner See is a remarkable sight and makes for amazing Austrian lake and mountain holidays.
Perfect for: Scuba diving
Accessibility: Easy
7. Faaker See
Suggested Read: 15 Exquisite Highlights To Include In Your Austrian Honeymoon
This is considered to be the cleanest Austrian lake with drinkable water. You need to pay only a small fee to relax by the lake, basking in the sun, or take a swim here. It observes events like the annual European Bike Week, which is the largest rally of motorcycles on the continent. Fishing is also a popular pastime, along with ice skating during winters.
Perfect for: Fishing and ice skating
Accessibility: Easy
8. Millstatter See
Image Source
Situated in the Carinthia region of Austria and known to be an incredible terrain are the Nock Mountains and the Drava Valley, and the Woodd Hochgosch area to the south. The view is simply breathtaking! This is a popular spot for Austrian lake holidays. The mountains protect the lake from cold winter winds, which means that the water temperature is suitable for swimming during summers.
Perfect for: Swimming
Accessibility: Easy
9. Zellersee
Suggested Read: 10 Finest Hotels In Austria That Fit Every Pocket
Zallersee or Lake Zell is a relatively small but beautiful freshwater lake. Because of its small size, Zellersee freezes in winters, making it perfect for year-round fun.
Perfect for: Swimming, fishing, kayaking, ice skating
Accessibility: Easy
10. Weissensee
Image Source
Also known as White Lake, this is a glacial lake incredibly popular for all types of activities. There is a ban on the use of private motor boats in this region, thereby ensuring a peaceful atmosphere and abundance of wildlife here.
Perfect for: Canoeing, fishing, hiking, skiing
Accessibility: Easy
Suggested Read: Of Castles And Lakes: An Imperious Family Trip To Germany And Austria
Austria makes for an ideal vacation destination in Europe. If you are planning an Austrian lakes summer holiday, book a customised Europe package right away and experience sheer bliss on your getaway!
